The landscape of the 38th America’s Cup has taken a dramatic turn with Athena Racing asserting its position as the official Challenger of Record for the prestigious sailing competition. The team, led by Sir Ben Ainslie, has updated its official website to reflect this status, stating:
“Athena Racing is the Challenger of Record for the 38th America’s Cup. The British team races for Royal Yacht Squadron Ltd.”
This announcement follows a historic moment where Bertie Bicket, Chairman of Royal Yacht Squadron Racing, formally presented the Challenge letter, which was accepted by Gillian Williams, Commodore of the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, the current Defender of the America’s Cup.
“This signing established Athena Racing as the Challenger of Record for the 38th America’s Cup.”
INEOS Britannia’s Role in Question
A notable absence in the Athena Racing statement is any mention of INEOS Britannia, the team previously led by Ainslie and backed by Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS Sports Group. The INEOS Britannia website still claims to represent Royal Yacht Squadron Ltd as the official British challenger, leaving uncertainty over the actual Challenger of Record status.
The Royal Yacht Squadron Ltd website continues to display its initial declaration:
“INEOS Britannia represents Royal Yacht Squadron Ltd, the British entry for the 38th America’s Cup led by Sir Ben Ainslie.”
With conflicting narratives emerging, official clarification from the Defender, Emirates Team New Zealand, is awaited following recent discussions in London with all interested parties.
Athena Racing’s Historic Achievements
Athena Racing made history in 2024, achieving several milestones for British sailing in the America’s Cup:
- First British team in 60 years to qualify for the America’s Cup Match.
- First British team in 90 years to score points in the Match.
- First British team ever to win the America’s Cup Challenger Series.
These achievements mark Britain’s most successful performance in America’s Cup history, reinforcing the importance of continuity in challenging for a fourth successive Cup.
Awaiting Final Confirmation
The America’s Cup, first contested in 1851 in Cowes, Isle of Wight, remains the pinnacle of competitive sailing, predating even the modern Olympic Games by 45 years. As the uncertainty over the official Challenger of Record continues, the sailing world eagerly awaits a statement from Emirates Team New Zealand, the Cup’s Defender, to confirm the true challenger for the 38th edition of this historic event.
Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds.
